Of course there are free days (every first Thursday of the month) and can only be reserved a month in advanced. Tickets sell out fast and can be requested 5 at a time so set your alarm and get them resereved. Their website is provided after the jump.

Thursday, March 5th proved to be a beautiful day and well worth the wait.

We arrived right on time and took advantage of the grounds first rounding our way to the palm and desert garden. Unfortunately for me I didn't bring my macro lens. There were many beautiful cacti blossoms that I would've jumped on.

From there we cut our way across to the jungle garden and made a pit stop at the lily pond.

Our mid way stop was the acclaimed asian gardens, Japanese and the newly built Chinese garden.

Here's my view from the wheelchair accessible trail. I would've loved to come in closer but I was pushing nugget up the hill.

This particular themed garden included a tradition japanese home. During park hours the door panels were opened to give visitor a glimpse of a 19th century Japanese dweling. Here's a picture of the japanese tatami dining room.

Just a little north of the japanese garden was the chinese garden. We could see the arched rooptops in the horizon. Here we were able to enjoy a nice cup of loose leaf tea from their tea shop. The seating was so peaceful as it overlooked the lotus ponds.

Peach blossoms

We were pressed on time so didn't take too many architectural shots of each themed garden. After soaking up the scene we made our way to the conservatory but quickly made our way out. The humidity proved to be too harsh for us. At outside temperatures nearing 80's the last thing we wanted to do was be someplace hotter. I can only imagine how monkey felt about it. The conservatory also house a childrens garden. I can't wait till monkey is old enough to understand the science and biology taking place here.

Our final stop, the north vista, is where I found most if not all the parents and their younger children. This long narrow way had a large and beautfil fountain with statues lining the pathway to the mansion. Swimming at the base were ducks and swimming beneath were koi fish. These kids absolutely loved it!

I wish we had spent a little bit more time to tour the libraries and view the artwork but my husby had to be on his way. Hey, at least it was free and a gorgeous day to boot.